The RMT union has announced that its train drivers will embark on industrial action in protest against safety standards on the London Underground.

On the day of the victorious England rugby team's parade on Monday and Tuesday next week, union members will drive trains at maximum speeds of 25mph instead of 65mph.

However London mayor Ken Livingstone has attempted to intervene in the dispute, holding out the prospect of a face-saving deal.

Meanwhile, three branches of the RMT in Scotland have moved to break the link with Labour in order to support the Scottish Socialists.